In years past, the only free-agency buzz surrounding the Packers involved which of their own players were in line for contract extensions before the March deadline. As other front offices used the NFL Scouting Combine to sniff around the free-agent market, former general manager Ted Thompson was busy watching tape of college prospects — or at least that was the running joke for much of his tenure in Green Bay.

The mood has changed with Brian Gutekunst in charge. A year ago, shortly after being named general manager, Gutekunst promised that the Packers would be “in every conversation” when free agency opened a few weeks later. And sure enough, they splashed money on tight end Jimmy Graham, reunited with defensive back Tramon Williams and gifted defensive coordinator Mike Pettine one of his favorite players in veteran defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson. The Packers also pursued cornerback Kyle Fuller of the Bears and pushed for outside linebacker Khalil Mack in a...